What really happened?

Every October, Americans are reminded of Christopher Columbus' voyages, although they might not know much about his journeys. Readers examine both Columbus' life and his voyages, from their preparations through their consequences for both Europeans and the native peoples of the Americas. Paintings, maps, and photographs illustrate the paths undertaken and give students a sense of how the Age of Exploration changed the world.

The Civil War was a pivotal event in American history. Readers gain insight about both the war itself and how those telling its story shape our understanding. Topics covered include the complicated, troubling history of slavery in the United States and the daily life of soldiers on both sides of the conflict.

Though the Emancipation Proclamation is widely believed to have ended slavery in the United States, it actually only freed slaves in the states that were not part of the Union. However, by making the war more explicitly about slavery and allowing African-Americans to serve in the Union Army, it did help end slavery. Readers come to better understand the complex origins and impact of this influential document.